Introduction Which Attachments? Which Buoyancy Compensator? Which Computer/ Dive Timer? Which Compass? Which Contents Gauge? Which Dive Bag? Which Fins? Which Knife? Which Mask? Which Reel? Which Regulator? Which Snorkel? Which Surface Marker Buoy? Which Suit and Options? Which Tanks? Overview - Which Single Cylinders? - Which Pony Cylinders? - Which Twin Sets? - Which Deco/ Stage Tank? - Which Argon System? Which Torch? - Which Back-up Torch? - Which Main Torch? Which Watch? Which Weight System?	Marking Template for EAN50 Marking Template for O2 Modifying AP Valve SMB's Modifying Other Style SMB's What Do I Need to Make My Own B'C'?	Introduction Modified Valve Drill Valve Drill Modified S-Drill S-Drill Switching to Deco Bottle

Which Primary (Main) Torch?

This section is concerned with larger dive lights, these can be a substantial investment. Prices are typically anything between £100 to £1500!

Bigger lights are usually brighter and consequently eat batteries faster, so it makes sense to buy a rechargeable unit. Make sure you know which type of torch you are buying since some of the more popular dive lights are available in rechargeable and non-rechargeable form. The non-rechargeable lights use lower wattage bulbs (to save on battery costs) and changing the bulbs and batteries can make conversion expensive. Torches are becoming increasing used as a means of communicating underwater, in addition to traditional hand signals. Three of the most elementary signals are:

	Ok?/Ok!	A circular signal with the torch
	Attention!	Flashing the torch from side to side/up and down in a "measured" way.
	Help!/Assistance!	Flashing the torch from side to side/up and down "rapidly".

These signals can be used with any torch but to be particularly successful/noticeable in the murk, they really need to be focusable canister style torches

Features to look for in a "primary" dive light are basically the same as a smaller light (see Which Back-up (Small) Torch?) but you should additionally look for:

	Is it focusable? This is essential if it is to be used to be used to signal your buddy.
	Does it have a broad beam with a tight "hot spot"? This provides the most flexibility. (and also eliminates a lot of back-scatter in UK waters)
	Does The hand-held light head have relatively neutral buoyancy? You do not want to be fighting the buoyancy / weight of the light during the dive.
	If a canister light, is the canister cylindrical? These are stronger than their "square" counterparts.
	Does it have a multi-voltage charger? These allow use overseas as well as in the UK.
	Can it be used "hands free", such as with a goodman handle, which whilst held on the back of the hand, still gives you the full dexterity of both hands.
	If a cannister light, how durable is the cannister material? Perspex cannisters can shatter if mistreated.
	Does it have a lock or some other mechanism (rotating the batteries) to prevent the torch being turned on by accident? These are essential - more than one diver has burned a hole through a drysuit or Buoyancy Compensator when a torch turned itself on in his/her kit bag!
	Does it have replaceable handles? If so, ensure that they are secure.

Recommendations The best balance between cost and price for an "entry level" main torch is probably the Underwater Kinetics D4R. This light has two bulbs fitted, allowing you to change between them underwater. The Hydrotech and Princeton Tec lights are also worthy of consideration. A good quality, hand held rechargeable option will not cost more than £125. These units are not particularly well suited to using signals underwater since they cannot be focussed. If you are thinking about spending more and/or are certain that diving is for you, it is worth going the extra mile and buying one of "Extreme Exposure's" canister lights, these are the best available but come at a price (£400-£1500). A good choice for normal recreational diving is the Pro 6 10watt HID which has a five hour burn time. (Available from Underwater Explorers and/or Aquarius Diving) The polarity on Extreme Exposure's Canister Torches can vary from model to model. Before using a replacement battery other than that originally supplied, check that it has the same polarity as the one being replaced...otherwise it could be a very expensive mistake in the case of a HID Torch - reversing the polarity will destroy the ballast!

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